What should my RV insurance cover?

Not all insurance policies are created equal and this goes double for insuring your RV. It is a common misconception is that you’re adequately protected through your car and home insurance but in many cases, this isn’t true. RV insurance can provide much more comprehensive coverage in a wider variety of situations as well as be more affordable.

While price is certainly a consideration when choosing your policy the extent of coverage you have is just as important. So what are the factors that weigh into your policy’s price and choosing the right policy for your needs?

1. The Type of RV

There are several different types of RVs but they can essentially be divided into two categories: towable trailers and motorhomes. The latter requires special insurance as it is a vehicle itself and is required to have third-party liability, accident benefits and direct compensation for property damage coverage.

The size make model age and cost of your RV also affect your coverage options as well as the cost of your insurance premium. For example an older RV will cost less to insure but you may have less coverage options due to the unit’s age.

A brand new RV however has the option of guaranteed replacement cost which means you will receive the full amount to replace your RV in the event of an insured loss. Or you can choose to get actual cash value or the market value of your RV at the time of the damage or loss. The first option is more expensive but you’ll also get the full value of your new RV without depreciation. Confused about these terms? Check out our dictionary for some help.

2. How Much Your RV is Used

Are you just the occasional RVer making one or two camping trips a year? Or are you a weekend warrior heading out every chance you can on  as many weekends you can? Do you park it in one spot for the summer or leave it in a permanent site year-round? Do you live in your RV for the whole summer or winter?

The more you use your RV the more protection it would require and your policy would reflect this. You may want additional contents or outbuildings coverage or higher policy limits if you’re living in your RV or travelling in it a lot.

3. Basic or Comprehensive Coverage

A basic RV policy will give you better coverage than relying on your car and home insurance policies. But of course, you can always upgrade your insurance policy to be more comprehensive. Standard RV insurance policies will provide liability coverage as well as protection for your RV itself and its contents and add-on structures (like a shed or deck) but only for specified perils listed in your policy wordings.

A more comprehensive policy is exactly as the name implies – it offers protection against a wider variety of risks except those listed as exclusions in your policy. While this is the more expensive option it also gives you more peace of mind as you’re protected in more situations.

RV Insurance Benefits

Many policies also offer other benefits that make your life easier as an RV owner including:

• Emergency roadside assistance including towing battery boost flat tire service fuel delivery and emergency advice
• Trip interruption protection or emergency vacation expense coverage which helps you cover expenses in the event you experience an insured loss or damage which allows you to get the repairs needed to continue the trip or get you home
• Access to travel related advice and discounts
• 24/7 claims service

Often you can choose to upgrade these benefits to a premium level if you travel extensively in your RV. You can choose to increase the limits of features such as emergency vacation expense and roadside assistance or keep them at their base level. The additional cost is often low but knowing exactly how you plan to use your RV will help guide your decision. Of course a good broker will always be able to help you figure out exactly what you need in your RV insurance policy.

Additional RV Insurance Coverage Options

Your broker can also tailor you RV insurance policy to include:

• Access to the Outdoorsy RV-sharing network  so you can rent out your RV without rendering your personal RV policy void (which is normally the case if you rent out your RV)
• Additional third-party automotive liability which covers you if you injure someone or damage another person’s property
• Additional specified perils coverage for physical damage and loss
• Extended coverage for your personal effects and outbuildings
• Coverage for golf carts and ATVs

Talk to your broker about what additional coverage you may need based on how you use your RV.

Discounts Available for RV Insurance Policies

There are a few steps you can take to reduce your premiums. Some may take some initial investment but others are simple and even better free:

• Bundling your home car and RV insurance with a single company
• Being a member of an RV club to enjoy group discounts
• Safe driving record
• Being claims-free for a period of time

Many people add their RV on their home insurance or assume it’s covered by their car insurance but this really isn’t the best option when it comes to adequately protecting your investment. An RV insurance policy should cover your RV and its contents better and in more situations. Contact a broker to find the right policy for your needs and budget. If you prefer an online chat  click the button below.